What pain medication is prescribed for relief of a pinched nerve?

A:

Quick Answer

According the WebMD, anticonvulsants, antidepressants, painkillers and topical treatments are all possible prescribed medications for a pinched nerve. Anticonvulsants, such as Mebaral and Luminal, are typically a doctor's first choice for nerve pain.

WebMD states that tricyclic antidepressants and serotonin and norepinephrine inhibitors help to control nerve pain and may be safer for those with heart conditions. Opioid painkillers are prescribed for severe pain and usually as a last resort when prior treatments are ineffective. These medications work quickly but have several negative side effects and can be addictive, states WebMD. Topical treatments include lidocaine patches and painkilling gels. Some doctors also choose to prescribe several treatments in order to provide maximum pain relief.